Sounds easy enough, doesn’t it? You put the conditioner on and take the conditioner off. However, there are rules when it comes to conditioning your hair, particularly if you want to show off the kind of hairstyle that will make Kim Kardashian envious.

Keep up with this list of hair care dos and don’ts and you will be on the path to the softest, lushest, most beautiful hair, no matter which side of the Mississippi you are on.

Conditions every time you wash

Conditioning your hair every time you wash it might seem like a waste of time, but trust us on this one. That little extra step, which takes no more than five minutes tops, can make all the difference in the quality of your hair. You see, shampoo is essential, but it can strip away the protective oils that keep your hair looking shiny, healthy, and strong. Conditioning your hair consistently after every shampoo is a must if you want to keep your hair in tip-top shape. We recommend using a shampoo and then a conditioner instead of an all-in-one.

Don’t over condition

On that same note, you don’t want on condition your hair. We know, we know. It is a very fine line to walk. However, too much conditioner can cause product build-up in your hair, leaving you with heavy, greasy, and unruly locks. To avoid over-conditioning, limit yourself to a quarter-sized amount of conditioner on your hair each time you shampoo (bonus: you’ll save money, too!). Also, you don’t want deep condition every day. Two or three times a week is enough. Finally, be sure to follow the rules on the back of the product regarding setting times.

Use specific hair products

It seems like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many people use the wrong kind of products for their hair type. Making that change can result in hair that is easier on the eyes and, more importantly, much more manageable. For example, if you have fine or thin hair, choose a volumizing conditioner. If you have curly hair, grab the bottle that nourishes that texture. If you have thick or frizz-prone hair, you’ll want a formula dedicated to straightening the shaft and removing all those flyaways. You get the idea.